County Record: Digital Edition

Penny Record: Digital Edition

DPS Seeking Information in 1989 Murder of U.S. Marine

The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) is asking for the public’s help in solving the murder of United States Marine Pfc. Greg William Ivey, 20, in 1989. As part of a DPS public awareness program, one unsolved case is featured by the Texas Ranger Unsolved Crimes Investigation Team each month in an effort to generate new investigative leads and bring added attention to unresolved or “cold cases” across the state.

At the time of his death, Ivey, had been in his hometown of Groves (Jefferson County) on a 15-day leave. Ivey was last seen on May 8, 1989, when his father dropped him off at Houston Intercontinental Airport for a flight back to Camp Lejeune in North Carolina. However, records indicate that Ivey never boarded his departing flight and never reported to Camp Lejeune. Ivey was last seen wearing a white shirt, Levi jeans, grey “roper” boots and a western hat.

One of Ivey’s friends also reported receiving a phone call from him on May 10, 1989. According to the friend, Ivey claimed to be hitchhiking back to Groves, Texas.

In August 1989, Ivey’s skeletal remains were discovered in Tyler County, approximately 10 miles southeast of Warren off of FM 2827. The remains were found near an old logging road, located approximately ½ to ¾ miles into the woods. An examination of the remains revealed evidence of murder.

The Texas Ranger Unsolved Crimes Investigation Team was created to assist Texas law enforcement agencies investigating unsolved murders or what appear to be serial or linked criminal transactions. Since there is no statute of limitations for the offense of murder, investigators pursue these cases to a successful resolution; or until no other lead is viable.

In addition, DPS created the Texas Rangers’ Unsolved Homicides webpage aimed at renewing public interest in unsolved cases. The site features more than 75 cases, including the division’s Top 12 Unsolved Cold Case Investigations. For more information, visit the Texas Rangers’ Cold Case website at: http://www.dps.texas.gov/TexasRangers/UnsolvedHomicides/index.htm.